Hidden in the gorgeous village of Trentham, there’s a dreamy little stay called The Potting Shed—part of the beautiful rose farm, Acre of Roses. It’s where rustic charm, botanical luxury, and creative solitude come together in the most soul-nourishing way.
I arrive mid week to focus on some projects. Almost immediately the French farmhouse vibe whisks me away to another world. The interiors by Belle Hemming Bright remind me of a well loved book , each curated item telling a story.
From old-world florals, soft French linens, worn leather pieces and a stone farmhouse sink, everything has been thoughtfully gathered and blended. Vintage garden paraphernalia, old rose books, the vintage tapware and lighting add warmth and complete the story.
French doors open out to a private Mediterranean style garden bordered by raspberry canes that are drooping with the weight of the fruit. Picking fresh raspberries is my idea of heaven, as is staying at a rose farm, so it’s all rather dreamy.
But I am also here to get some work done. It’s not hard to get into a creative mode, especially with an overflowing jug of freshly picked roses next to me. Combined with stunning coffee from the Italian Butterfly espresso machine, words flow onto the page.
I feel cocooned—just me, my creativity and my books (and the dog, they welcome pets). To give myself time and space in surroundings like this is sublime.
Doggo asleep at my feet, butterflies dancing just outside the window, and the whole world falls away.
Late summer brings not just the warmth of the days still long, but the sense of deep permission—to rest, to create, to simply be.
Through the open window, I heard the gentle sounds of farm life next door. Anticipation builds for the visit to the rose farm and gardens later.
If you need to get away, to clear your head, to be held by the peacefulness of the countryside—this is the place. A little garden corner of calm just for you, or bring a partner, where you can disconnect, play records, drink wine, read, or finish that project you’ve been meaning to start.
The writing desk sits across from the pot belly stove— a quiet promise of how beautiful winter would be here.
A stay at the Potting Shed was everything I needed. From the outdoor bath under the stars to the quiet moments of birdsong, I felt the layers of stress melt away. Nowhere to be just long stretches of time where I could write, read, rest, or simply think.
The deep peace that came with that was the ultimate luxury.
Acre of Roses is a working rose farm and boutique accommodation run by Sandy McKinley and Rob Roy in Trentham, Victoria. Known for its incredibly beautiful style, sense of wellbeing and regenerative practices, the property includes a two bedroom grand miner’s cottage and The Potting Shed—each styled with vintage French touches, luxurious linens, and surrounded by over 1,500 rose bushes.
The philosophy here is slow living, sustainability and luxury surrounds making it an ideal setting for rest, renewal, and romance.
It’s not surprising that Acre of Roses has recently been awarded Australia’s first Wellness In Travel & Tourism certification.
Practical Info
Location: Trentham, Victoria. Just over an hour from Melbourne, Victoria
Accommodation Type: The Potting Shed (self-contained), dog-friendly (and The Miners Cottage – 2 Beds, needs an article of its own)
Standout Features: Outdoor bath, espresso machine, private garden, luxury linen, stylish interiors, record player, access to rose farm. In the Miners Cottage – mineral salt purified cedar hot tub.
Perfect For: Garden lovers, Solo getaways, writing retreats, couples, pet owners
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